Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. An image capturing apparatus comprising: a first wireless communication unit configured to perform communication with a communication apparatus using a first wireless communication method; a second wireless communication unit configured to perform wireless communication with the communication apparatus using a second wireless communication method with which energy consumption is lower than with the first wireless communication method; and a control unit configured to, if a processing request relating to image data is received from the communication apparatus via the first wireless communication unit, disconnect a connection with the communication apparatus via the first wireless communication unit, and transmit a completion notification after executing predetermined processing corresponding to the processing request to the communication apparatus via the second wireless communication unit.
This invention relates to an image capturing apparatus designed to optimize energy consumption during wireless communication with a communication apparatus. The apparatus includes a first wireless communication unit for high-energy communication, such as Wi-Fi, and a second wireless communication unit for low-energy communication, such as Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE). The apparatus also includes a control unit that manages communication transitions. When the apparatus receives a processing request for image data from the communication apparatus via the high-energy communication unit, it disconnects the high-energy connection and executes the requested processing. After completing the processing, the apparatus sends a completion notification to the communication apparatus using the low-energy communication unit. This approach reduces energy consumption by minimizing the use of high-energy communication, which is typically more power-intensive than low-energy alternatives. The invention is particularly useful in battery-powered devices, such as cameras or smartphones, where energy efficiency is critical. The control unit ensures seamless switching between communication methods, maintaining functionality while conserving power. The apparatus may also include additional features, such as image processing capabilities, to further enhance its utility in low-power environments.
2. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the processing request includes information that designates a wireless communication method to be used to transmit the completion notification, and the control unit transmits, if the first wireless communication method is designated based on the information included in the processing request, the completion notification to the communication apparatus using the first wireless communication unit, and disconnects, if the second wireless communication method is designated based on the information included in the processing request, the connection with the communication apparatus via the first wireless communication unit, and transmits the completion notification to the communication apparatus using the second wireless communication unit.
A wireless communication apparatus is designed to handle processing requests from a communication apparatus, where the apparatus includes a first wireless communication unit for short-range communication and a second wireless communication unit for long-range communication. The apparatus processes requests and transmits a completion notification upon task completion. The processing request includes information specifying which wireless communication method should be used for the completion notification. If the request designates the first wireless communication method, the apparatus sends the completion notification via the short-range communication unit. If the second wireless communication method is specified, the apparatus disconnects the short-range connection and transmits the completion notification using the long-range communication unit instead. This allows flexible communication based on the request, optimizing efficiency and resource usage. The apparatus ensures proper routing of notifications depending on the designated method, improving adaptability in wireless communication scenarios.
3. The apparatus according to claim 2 , further comprising an acceptance unit configured to accept changing of the information from the communication apparatus via the first wireless communication unit, wherein the control unit transmits, if the acceptance unit accepts changing to the first wireless communication method, the completion notification to the communication apparatus via the first wireless communication unit, and disconnects, if the acceptance unit accepts changing to the second wireless communication method, the connection with the communication apparatus via the first wireless communication unit, and transmits the completion notification to the communication apparatus using the second wireless communication unit.
A wireless communication apparatus is designed to manage connections between devices using different wireless communication methods. The apparatus includes a first wireless communication unit for establishing a connection with a communication apparatus and a second wireless communication unit for an alternative communication method. A control unit manages the connection, allowing the apparatus to switch between the first and second communication methods. An acceptance unit is configured to receive requests from the communication apparatus to change the communication method. If the acceptance unit approves a switch to the first method, the control unit sends a completion notification via the first wireless communication unit. If the acceptance unit approves a switch to the second method, the control unit disconnects the first connection and sends the completion notification using the second wireless communication unit. This system ensures seamless transitions between communication methods while maintaining reliable notifications. The apparatus is particularly useful in environments where multiple wireless standards coexist, such as in IoT or smart home devices, where devices may need to switch between high-bandwidth and low-power communication modes. The invention improves efficiency by dynamically adapting to the most suitable communication method based on user or system requirements.
4. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the predetermined processing is RAW data development processing.
The invention relates to an apparatus for processing image data, specifically focusing on RAW data development processing. RAW data refers to unprocessed image data captured by digital cameras, which requires specialized processing to convert it into a viewable format. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and accurate RAW data development to enhance image quality while preserving details. The apparatus includes a processing unit configured to perform predetermined processing on image data. In this specific embodiment, the predetermined processing is RAW data development, which involves demosaicing, noise reduction, white balance correction, and color conversion. The apparatus may also include an input interface for receiving RAW image data from a camera or storage device, and an output interface for delivering the processed image data to a display or storage system. The processing unit may utilize algorithms optimized for speed and accuracy, ensuring high-quality image output with minimal artifacts. Additionally, the apparatus may incorporate user-adjustable parameters to allow for customization of the RAW development process, such as exposure compensation, sharpness, and color grading. The system may also support batch processing for multiple RAW files, improving workflow efficiency. The invention aims to provide a versatile and efficient solution for RAW image processing, catering to both professional and amateur photographers.
5. The apparatus according to claim 4 , wherein the RAW data development processing includes one of processing for developing RAW data corresponding to an original image and processing for developing RAW data corresponding to a substitute image of the original image.
This invention relates to image processing systems, specifically apparatuses for handling RAW image data. The problem addressed is the need to efficiently process RAW image data, which is unprocessed data captured by digital cameras, to produce usable images. The apparatus includes a development processing unit that performs RAW data development processing. This processing can involve either developing RAW data corresponding to the original captured image or developing RAW data corresponding to a substitute image of the original. The substitute image may be a modified version of the original, such as a cropped, resized, or otherwise altered image. The apparatus ensures flexibility in image processing by allowing the selection of either the original or a substitute image for development, depending on user needs or system requirements. This approach optimizes storage and processing efficiency while maintaining image quality. The system may also include additional components for capturing, storing, or displaying the processed images, ensuring a complete workflow from RAW data acquisition to final image output. The invention is particularly useful in digital photography and imaging applications where RAW data processing is essential for high-quality image production.
6. The apparatus according to claim 5 , wherein the control unit has a unit configured to estimate a time required for the processing for developing the RAW data of the original image corresponding to the substitute image, based on a result of executing the processing for developing RAW data of the substitute image.
This invention relates to image processing systems, specifically for developing RAW image data. The problem addressed is the computational inefficiency in estimating processing time for developing high-resolution RAW image data, which can lead to delays in user workflows. The apparatus includes a control unit that estimates the time required to process RAW data of an original image by analyzing the processing time of a substitute image. The substitute image is a lower-resolution or simplified version of the original image, allowing for faster processing while providing a basis for time estimation. The control unit uses the processing result of the substitute image to predict the time needed for the full-resolution original image. This approach improves efficiency by avoiding full-scale processing for time estimation, reducing computational overhead and accelerating workflows. The apparatus may also include a display unit to show the estimated processing time to the user, enhancing transparency and user experience. The invention is particularly useful in digital photography and imaging systems where rapid feedback on processing times is beneficial.
7. The apparatus according to claim 6 , wherein the control unit adds the estimated time to a notification of acceptance of the processing request.
A system for managing processing requests in a computing environment addresses delays in task execution by estimating the time required to complete a request. The system includes a control unit that calculates the estimated processing time based on factors such as current system load, resource availability, and the complexity of the task. This estimated time is then integrated into a notification confirming the acceptance of the processing request, providing users with a clear expectation of when the task will be completed. The control unit may also prioritize requests based on predefined criteria, such as urgency or resource requirements, to optimize system efficiency. Additionally, the system may include a monitoring module to track the progress of ongoing tasks and adjust the estimated time dynamically if conditions change. This approach improves transparency and user experience by reducing uncertainty about task completion times. The system is particularly useful in environments where multiple users submit requests to shared resources, such as cloud computing platforms or enterprise servers. By providing accurate time estimates upfront, the system helps users plan their workflows more effectively and reduces the likelihood of delays impacting downstream processes.
8. A communication apparatus comprising: a first wireless communication unit configured to perform communication with an image capturing apparatus using a first wireless communication method; a second wireless communication unit configured to perform wireless communication with the image capturing apparatus using a second wireless communication method with which energy consumption is lower than with the first wireless communication method; and a control unit configured to, if a processing request relating to image data is transmitted to the image capturing apparatus via the first wireless communication unit, disconnect a connection with the image capturing apparatus via the first wireless communication unit, and receive a completion notification after executing predetermined processing corresponding to the processing request from the image capturing apparatus via the second wireless communication unit.
This invention relates to a communication apparatus designed to efficiently manage wireless communication with an image capturing device, such as a camera, by optimizing energy consumption. The apparatus includes two wireless communication units: a first unit for high-speed communication with the image capturing device using a first wireless method, and a second unit for low-energy communication using a second wireless method. The apparatus also includes a control unit that manages communication between the two units. When a processing request, such as an image transfer or analysis command, is sent to the image capturing device via the first unit, the control unit disconnects the high-speed connection to conserve energy. After the image capturing device completes the requested processing, it sends a completion notification back to the communication apparatus via the low-energy second unit. This approach reduces power consumption by avoiding continuous high-speed communication while ensuring the apparatus remains informed of processing completion. The system is particularly useful in battery-powered devices where energy efficiency is critical, such as mobile devices or IoT cameras. The invention ensures reliable communication while minimizing unnecessary power usage.
9. The apparatus according to claim 8 , wherein the processing request includes information that designates a wireless communication method to be used to transmit the completion notification, and the control unit adds the information to the processing request and receives the completion notification from the image capturing apparatus using the wireless communication method designated in the information.
This invention relates to an apparatus for managing image processing tasks, particularly in systems where an image capturing device (e.g., a camera) performs processing requests and sends completion notifications. The problem addressed is ensuring reliable and efficient communication of processing results, especially in environments where multiple communication methods may be available. The apparatus includes a control unit that receives a processing request from an image capturing device, where the request specifies an image processing task. The control unit processes the request and sends it to an image processing device. Upon completion, the image processing device generates a completion notification, which the control unit then forwards to the image capturing device. The apparatus ensures that the completion notification is transmitted using a designated wireless communication method specified in the processing request. This allows flexibility in choosing the most suitable communication method (e.g., Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular) based on factors like signal strength, latency, or power consumption. The control unit dynamically adds the designated communication method information to the processing request before transmission, ensuring the completion notification is received via the specified method. This improves reliability and efficiency in image processing workflows, particularly in distributed or mobile environments.
10. The apparatus according to claim 9 , wherein the control unit transmits a request to change the wireless communication method to the image capturing apparatus via the first wireless communication unit, receives, if changing to the first wireless communication method is requested, the completion notification from the image capturing apparatus via the first wireless communication unit, and disconnects, if changing to the second wireless communication method is requested, the connection with the image capturing apparatus via the first wireless communication unit, and receives the completion notification from the image capturing apparatus using the second wireless communication unit.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems for image capturing apparatuses, addressing the need for seamless switching between different wireless communication methods to optimize performance. The apparatus includes a control unit and at least two wireless communication units, each supporting distinct communication methods. The control unit manages the switching process between these methods based on operational requirements. When a request to change the communication method is initiated, the control unit sends a request to the image capturing apparatus via the first wireless communication unit. If the switch is to the first communication method, the apparatus waits for a completion notification from the image capturing apparatus before proceeding. If the switch is to the second communication method, the apparatus disconnects the existing connection via the first communication unit and establishes a new connection using the second communication unit, then receives the completion notification through the second unit. This ensures uninterrupted communication during transitions, improving reliability and efficiency in wireless image transmission. The system is particularly useful in scenarios where different communication protocols offer varying advantages, such as higher bandwidth or lower latency, depending on the use case. The apparatus dynamically adapts to these conditions, enhancing overall system performance.
11. The apparatus according to claim 9 , wherein the predetermined processing is RAW data development processing.
This invention relates to an apparatus for processing image data, specifically focusing on RAW data development. RAW data refers to unprocessed image data captured by digital cameras, which requires specialized processing to convert it into a viewable image format. The challenge addressed is the need for efficient and accurate RAW data development to enhance image quality while preserving details. The apparatus includes a processing unit configured to perform predetermined processing on image data. In this specific embodiment, the predetermined processing is RAW data development, which involves demosaicing, white balance correction, noise reduction, and color space conversion. The apparatus may also include an input interface for receiving RAW image data from a camera or storage device, and an output interface for delivering the processed image data to a display or storage system. The processing unit may further incorporate machine learning algorithms to optimize the development process based on image characteristics, such as lighting conditions or sensor noise patterns. The goal is to automate and improve the accuracy of RAW data development, reducing the need for manual adjustments and enhancing the final image quality.
12. The apparatus according to claim 11 , wherein the RAW data development processing includes one of processing for developing RAW data corresponding to an original image and processing for developing RAW data corresponding to a substitute image of the original image.
This invention relates to image processing systems, specifically apparatuses for handling RAW image data. The problem addressed is the need for flexible processing of RAW data, which can represent either the original captured image or a substitute image derived from the original. The apparatus includes a development processing unit that performs RAW data development, which can involve either developing the original RAW data to produce the original image or developing modified RAW data to generate a substitute image. The substitute image may be created by applying adjustments or transformations to the original RAW data, such as color correction, noise reduction, or other enhancements. The apparatus ensures that the development process can adapt to different use cases, allowing for either direct reconstruction of the original image or generation of an optimized substitute image based on processing requirements. This flexibility is particularly useful in applications where different versions of the same image may be needed, such as in photography, medical imaging, or surveillance systems. The system may also include additional components for capturing, storing, or transmitting the processed images, ensuring seamless integration into existing workflows. The invention improves efficiency by providing a unified processing framework that handles both original and substitute image development without requiring separate systems.
13. The apparatus according to claim 11 , wherein the control unit acquires a time required for the RAW data development processing in the image capturing apparatus from the image capturing apparatus, and determines a wireless communication method to be included in the information, based on the time acquired from the image capturing apparatus.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems for image capturing apparatuses, specifically optimizing data transfer methods based on processing time. The problem addressed is inefficient data transmission between an image capturing device and a control unit, leading to delays or suboptimal performance. The apparatus includes a control unit that communicates with an image capturing device to manage data transfer. The control unit acquires the time required for RAW data development processing from the image capturing device. Based on this processing time, the control unit determines the most suitable wireless communication method to include in transmitted information. This ensures that the communication method aligns with the processing speed of the image capturing device, improving overall efficiency. The image capturing device captures images and performs initial processing, such as RAW data development. The control unit receives this data and adjusts the wireless communication method dynamically, considering factors like processing delays or bandwidth requirements. This dynamic adjustment prevents bottlenecks and ensures smooth data flow between devices. By linking the communication method to the processing time, the system optimizes performance, reducing latency and enhancing user experience. The invention is particularly useful in professional photography or high-speed imaging applications where rapid data transfer is critical.
14. A control method of an image capturing apparatus having a first wireless communication unit configured to perform communication with a communication apparatus using a first wireless communication method, and a second wireless communication unit configured to perform wireless communication with the communication apparatus using a second wireless communication method with which energy consumption is lower than with the first wireless communication method, the method comprising: if a processing request relating to image data is received from the communication apparatus via the first wireless communication unit, disconnecting a connection with the communication apparatus via the first wireless communication unit; and transmitting a completion notification after executing predetermined processing corresponding to the processing request to the communication apparatus via the second wireless communication unit.
This invention relates to a control method for an image capturing apparatus designed to optimize wireless communication efficiency and energy consumption. The apparatus includes two wireless communication units: a first unit for high-speed communication with a communication device using a first wireless method (e.g., Wi-Fi) and a second unit for low-energy communication using a second method (e.g., Bluetooth Low Energy). The method addresses the problem of excessive power consumption during prolonged high-speed communication sessions. When the image capturing apparatus receives a processing request (e.g., image transfer or analysis) from the communication device via the first unit, it disconnects the high-speed connection to conserve energy. After completing the requested processing (e.g., image compression or transmission), the apparatus sends a completion notification to the communication device via the low-energy second unit. This approach ensures efficient data handling while minimizing power usage, particularly useful in battery-powered devices like cameras or smartphones. The method dynamically switches between communication modes based on operational needs, balancing speed and energy efficiency.
15. A control method of a communication apparatus having a first wireless communication unit configured to perform communication with an image capturing apparatus using a first wireless communication method and a second wireless communication unit configured to perform wireless communication with the image capturing apparatus using a second wireless communication method with which energy consumption is lower than with the first wireless communication method, the method comprising: if a processing request relating to image data is transmitted to the image capturing apparatus via the first wireless communication unit, disconnecting a connection with the image capturing apparatus via the first wireless communication unit; and receiving a completion notification after executing predetermined processing corresponding to the processing request from the image capturing apparatus via the second wireless communication unit.
This invention relates to a control method for a communication apparatus that manages wireless communication with an image capturing device using two different wireless communication methods. The first method is a higher-energy-consumption protocol, while the second is a lower-energy-consumption protocol. The problem addressed is optimizing power efficiency in communication between the apparatus and the image capturing device, particularly when processing image data. The communication apparatus includes a first wireless unit for high-energy communication and a second wireless unit for low-energy communication. When a processing request for image data is sent to the image capturing device via the first unit, the connection through the first unit is disconnected. After the image capturing device completes the requested processing, it sends a completion notification back to the communication apparatus via the second, low-energy unit. This approach reduces power consumption by avoiding prolonged use of the higher-energy communication method while still ensuring the processing request is fulfilled and completion is confirmed. The method ensures efficient communication by leveraging the strengths of both protocols—high-speed data transfer for initial requests and low-power signaling for status updates.
16. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing a program for causing a computer to function as an image capturing apparatus comprising: a first wireless communication unit configured to perform communication with a communication apparatus using a first wireless communication method; a second wireless communication unit configured to perform wireless communication with the communication apparatus using a second wireless communication method with which energy consumption is lower than with the first wireless communication method; and a control unit configured to, if a processing request relating to image data is received from the communication apparatus via the first wireless communication unit, disconnect a connection with the communication apparatus via the first wireless communication unit, and transmit a completion notification after executing predetermined processing corresponding to the processing request to the communication apparatus via the second wireless communication unit.
This invention relates to an image capturing apparatus designed to optimize energy consumption during wireless communication. The apparatus includes a first wireless communication unit for high-speed communication with a communication device using a first wireless method, and a second wireless communication unit for low-energy communication using a second wireless method. The apparatus also includes a control unit that, upon receiving a processing request for image data from the communication device via the first wireless unit, disconnects the high-speed connection and executes the requested processing. After completing the processing, the apparatus sends a completion notification to the communication device using the low-energy wireless method. This approach reduces power consumption by avoiding prolonged use of the higher-energy first wireless method while ensuring the communication device is informed of task completion. The invention is particularly useful in battery-powered devices where minimizing energy usage is critical, such as mobile cameras or IoT imaging systems. The control unit manages the transition between communication methods, ensuring efficient resource utilization while maintaining functionality. The second wireless method is specifically chosen for its lower energy consumption compared to the first, allowing the apparatus to conserve power during idle or low-data-rate operations.
17. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing a program for causing a computer to function as a communication apparatus comprising: a first wireless communication unit configured to perform communication with an image capturing apparatus using a first wireless communication method; a second wireless communication unit configured to perform wireless communication with the image capturing apparatus using a second wireless communication method with which energy consumption is lower than with the first wireless communication method; and a control unit configured to, if a processing request relating to image data is transmitted to the image capturing apparatus via the first wireless communication unit, disconnect a connection with the image capturing apparatus via the first wireless communication unit, and receive a completion notification after executing predetermined processing corresponding to the processing request from the image capturing apparatus via the second wireless communication unit.
This invention relates to a communication apparatus designed to efficiently manage wireless communication with an image capturing device, such as a camera, by leveraging two distinct wireless communication methods to optimize energy consumption. The apparatus includes a first wireless communication unit that communicates with the image capturing device using a higher-energy method, such as Wi-Fi, for transmitting processing requests related to image data. A second wireless communication unit operates using a lower-energy method, such as Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), to receive notifications from the image capturing device after processing is complete. The control unit manages the transition between these communication methods: when a processing request is sent via the first unit, the connection is disconnected to conserve energy, and the apparatus waits for a completion notification via the second unit. This approach reduces power consumption by avoiding continuous high-energy communication while ensuring timely updates on processing status. The system is particularly useful for battery-powered devices that frequently interact with image capturing devices, such as smartphones or portable cameras, where energy efficiency is critical.
18. An apparatus comprising: a storage unit configured to store at least one RAW image data; a first wireless communication unit configured to perform communication with a communication apparatus using a first wireless communication method; a second wireless communication unit configured to perform wireless communication with the communication apparatus using a second wireless communication method with which energy consumption is lower than with the first wireless communication method; and a control unit configured to, if a development processing request to the at least one RAW image data stored the storage unit is received from the communication apparatus via the first wireless communication unit, disconnect a connection with the communication apparatus via the first wireless communication unit, and transmit a completion notification after executing predetermined processing corresponding to the development processing request to the communication apparatus via the second wireless communication unit.
This invention relates to an image processing apparatus designed to efficiently handle RAW image data while minimizing energy consumption during wireless communication. The apparatus includes a storage unit for storing RAW image data, a first wireless communication unit for high-speed communication with a communication device, and a second wireless communication unit for low-power communication with the same device. The apparatus also includes a control unit that manages communication transitions. When a request to develop RAW image data is received from the communication device via the high-speed wireless connection, the control unit disconnects the high-speed connection and switches to the low-power wireless method. After processing the RAW image data, the apparatus sends a completion notification to the communication device using the low-power connection. This approach reduces energy consumption by avoiding prolonged use of the high-speed wireless method, which typically consumes more power. The apparatus ensures efficient data processing while conserving battery life, particularly useful in portable devices where power efficiency is critical. The system dynamically adjusts communication methods based on the processing state, optimizing both performance and energy usage.
19. The apparatus according to claim 18 , wherein the development processing request includes information that designates a wireless communication method to be used to transmit the completion notification, and the control unit transmits, if the first wireless communication method is designated based on the information included in the development processing request, the completion notification to the communication apparatus using the first wireless communication unit, and disconnects, if the second wireless communication method is designated based on the information included in the development processing request, the connection with the communication apparatus via the first wireless communication unit, and transmits the completion notification to the communication apparatus using the second wireless communication unit.
A system for managing wireless communication in a development processing apparatus involves dynamically selecting between multiple wireless communication methods based on user-defined preferences. The apparatus includes a first wireless communication unit for short-range communication, a second wireless communication unit for long-range communication, and a control unit that processes development tasks. When a development processing request is received, it may include instructions specifying which wireless method to use for transmitting a completion notification. If the request designates the first wireless method, the control unit sends the notification via the short-range unit. If the second method is selected, the apparatus first disconnects from the short-range connection and then transmits the notification using the long-range unit. This allows flexible communication handling, optimizing for either proximity-based or wide-area connectivity depending on the user's needs. The system ensures efficient resource use by dynamically switching between communication modes without manual intervention, improving workflow efficiency in development environments where different communication requirements may arise.
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February 18, 2020
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